Re:The prison inside: Japan's hikikomori lack relationships,...
by humanrebar on Monday June 03, 2019 @09:47AM
(#20082997)
I've never been to a church that required people to believe anything in order to engage in any particular way. Except to become a teacher or minister or priest, but that's fairly common sense I think.
But, yes, people will often discuss theology and proselytize. If that sort of thing angers you, maybe skip out after the music and then catch up with folks when the coffee or potluck starts. Or maybe skip all of the above and just sign up for the volunteer activities at retirement homes, women's shelters, etc.
Re:The prison inside: Japan's hikikomori lack relationships,...
by falcolas on Monday June 03, 2019 @10:33AM
(#20083467)
> I've never been to a church that required people to believe anything in order to engage in any particular way.
Communion at the Catholic Church. Or entering the Mormon church at all.
Re:The prison inside: Japan's hikikomori lack relationships,...
by richeyrw on Monday June 03, 2019 @10:42AM
(#20083574)
You're probably thinking of entering a Mormon Temple. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints distinguishes between churches where people meet every Sunday, and Temples where more important ceremonies are conducted (and which, incidentally, aren't open on Sunday).
Re:The prison inside: Japan's hikikomori lack relationships,...
by humanrebar on Monday June 03, 2019 @11:27AM
(#20084167)
Yeah, technically all Christian churches do not allow non-Christians to take communion, though it's on the honor system. However, I don't think an agnostic or atheist would miss a cracker and shot of juice.
I guess maybe wedding might be a niche concern. Some churches only marry believers or even members, but I bet most would consider it anyway. Only some sort of premarital class or counseling is typically required.
Re:The prison inside: Japan's hikikomori lack relationships,...
by sidibe on Monday June 03, 2019 @10:58AM
(#20083771)
There are plenty of churches where you really don't have to believe in God or even feel pressured to. Particularly left leaning mainstream denominations like Episcopal or PCUSA seem to be a mix of believers and people who just like the community. Universalist Unitarianism is a little more blatant about that.
Churches have a weird entry criteria - you have to believe in their god (which can be offensive when it’s phrased like “you are incapable of handling your own life, leave it to God”). And if you don’t, you’re silently and persistently pressured into making that conversion, with a healthy dose of pity for you and your sinful ways.